October 2, 2026
SILVER CREEK, Ga. — The members of Pleasant Valley South Baptist Church gathered on Sunday, though the service was anything but “business as usual.” The highlight of Sunday's gathering was a note-burning, symbolically celebrating the church becoming debt free.
Dr. Philip May, senior pastor, said that the celebration service serves as a reminder of “what God will do through His people when they follow His vision!” He was joined by David Johnson, president of United Community Bank in Rome, Ga., who placed the note into the fire.
Members Kevin and Mai Lee Payne are teaching their boys about debt, and are happy to be able to use the church as a positive example. "It's so wonderful to be in a church that follows God's Word on eliminating debt. This moment represents unity, sacrifice, and discipline by our leadership, current members, and many who are no longer with us. "
Pleasant Valley South Baptist Church was established in 1856. More than two decades ago, the church entered into its first capital campaign to raise $2.4 million for a new worship center. May says the theme of the campaign was, “Not equal gifts, but equal sacrifices.”
Following the opening of the new center, the church remodeled the old worship building for their children’s ministry, naming it “Creation Station.” The church paid cash in the amount of $350,000, though the Awana game room and education facility cost $1.8 million.
The church members voted unanimously to approve all three capital campaigns. While servicing the campaigns, Pleasant Valley South has continued to be a leader in giving to the Cooperative Program of the Southern Baptist Convention, the Georgia Baptist Mission Board and the local Floyd County Baptist Association. The church is also a strong supporter of missions through the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
May explains that the debt could have been retired before now, however, the church chose to continue strong mission giving. The emphasis on missions is shared by members Dennis and Rhea Drummond, who said, "We are so excited to see how our tithes and offerings can now be even more focused on sharing the good news of Jesus Christ to the world around us."
During the celebration, the church remembered those who contributed and others who have gone home to be with the Lord. May says, “All who participated have a special part in the history God has made possible in this place.”
Pleasant Valley South has had two pastors in the past 52 years, and under their leadership, the church has built and expanded its facilities for growth. The church has acquired more property, and currently sits on 45 acres.
May says that becoming debt free will open more opportunities to increase the church’s investment in missions, as well as future capital improvements to its facilities.
For more information about Pleasant Valley South Baptist Church and its ministries, please visit the church’s website at www.pvsbc.org.
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